Tis the season for giving gifts. But you don’t have to have a huge budget to make the holiday season brighter for your loved ones. More people are adopting a philosophy of making gifts more meaningful and not just about “stuff.” Here are a few ideas we came up with that won't contribute to a pile of unwanted or unneeded items around the house.

Giving experiences can go much further than the latest toy, video game system or fashion craze. Spending time together as a family will allow time for everyone to bond. Ideas can range from a family vacation to attending a concert or show together.

Studies have shown these kinds of experiences have a great impact on children. It builds self-esteem and security and also decreases the number of behavioral problems. Spending more time together also reduces violence among children and boosts success in the classroom.

Some families adopt the "Rule of Four" for gift giving. Children get a gift they want. This can be a toy or video game they've had their eyes on. The need gift can be one of the experiences discussed above. This can be adjusted according to the family budget. The wear gift is clothing of some kind, whether it's something they need or just something they want. And finally, the read gift goes beyond the typical book. Instead of adding to the bookshelf, instead, create a page or two of photos and memories from the year. These pages can be added to one big scrapbook.

Think outside the recipe box. One of the most memorable gifts my family gave my mother was a handwritten version of my grandmother’s famous zucchini relish. The recipe was found as we were going through some old papers after my grandmother passed away. We bought an inexpensive frame and put the recipe inside. It’s a constant reminder of grandma every time we’re in the kitchen. This doesn’t have to be reserved for just a recipe. Any handwritten note or card from a lost loved one can bring back special memories when displayed.

These are just a few ways you can give gifts this holiday season that won't be tossed aside and forgotten about by St. Patrick's Day. You know your loved ones and what things will work better with your budget and circumstances.